Mechanical Calibration Apprenticeship in Helensburgh

Programme title: Mechanical Calibration Apprenticeship

Level: SCQF Level 7

Salary: £16,000, rising annually to £38,461 post‑apprenticeship

Location: HM Naval Base Clyde, Scotland

Application closing date: 12th March 2026

Programme start date: August 2026

Overview

This 4‑year apprenticeship offers an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in mechanical calibration engineering. You’ll earn recognised qualifications while gaining hands‑on experience working on Royal Navy submarines.

About The Programme

As a Mechanical Calibration Apprentice, you’ll become a key part of our expert Calibration Services team at HM Naval Base Clyde. You’ll work alongside highly skilled technicians and engineers to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test equipment used to monitor, measure, and maintain complex systems for the Trident and Astute Class submarine programmes.

Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll develop expertise in this highly specialised field, where precision is key. Working with advanced instruments, you’ll gain the skills needed to calibrate, adjust, and repair equipment to exacting standards. Your daily responsibilities will include calibrating and fine‑tuning test equipment in line with approved procedures, verifying accuracy across a wide range of measurements, and supporting critical safety and performance requirements. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to specialised projects, such as designing calibration setups and producing custom testing accessories like switch boxes.

Qualifications

• Full‑time study at West College Scotland SVQ Level 2 (SCQF Level 5) in Performing Engineering Operations
• NC Mechanical Engineering – Year 1
• Year 2: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde and 1 day per week at West College Scotland SVQ Diploma in Technical Services in Engineering (SCQF Level 7)
• NC Mechanical Engineering – Year 2
• Years 3–4: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde (if progressing to HNC) and 1 day per week at West College Scotland SVQ Diploma in Engineering Technical Support (SCQF Level 7)
• HNC Mechanical Engineering

Future Prospects

Upon successful completion, you will be positioned to progress into the role of Industrial Calibrator, which currently offers a salary of £38,461. There are additional career progression opportunities, including Calibration Engineer or Senior Calibration Specialist, and potential move into line management or leadership positions.

What You’ll Need

• National Level 5 qualifications (or equivalent) in Maths and English, and a Science or technical subject.
• Two other qualifications at National Level 4 or 5 or above.
• Security clearance eligibility: must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC).

What You’ll Get

• Fully funded qualification
• Personal development training and opportunities
• Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Employee share scheme
• Flexible benefits including cycle‑to‑work scheme and employee shopping savings portal

Application Process and Closing Dates

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if we receive a high volume of interest. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we strongly recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.